Olle Trails

The Olle trails are one of the major draws of Jeju-do offering unrivalled and breathtaking views of landscapes, coasts and beaches, which cannot be accessed by cars. In total there are 21 different trails around the island, each offering their own unique charms and characteristics. It just depends what type of person you are and what certain parts of nature you are personally drawn to.  Each trail will take about 4-5 hours to complete depending how fast you walk and how many times you stop to take pictures.

The trails were very easy to follow. In order to know you are going at the right direction, you only need to spot the orange and blue ribbons which are tied onto trees, gates, lamp posts etc. and it can always be easily spotted. The trails are amazing in the way that it always leads you to interesting landscapes and structures and cleverly makes sure you do not miss out on a single thing. Some parts of the trails were particularly difficult to climb, but there are always cafes available nearby so that you can recharge your batteries. Once you have charged up and quenched your thirst with a cookie shake, you can set off again!

Pondering as to which route to take?  Here is a list by the Jeju Olle Trail Organization.

Here is a photographic diary of Olle Trail route 6!

Source: Seoul State of Mind

Source: Seoul State of Mind

Museums

Not much of a hiker or outdoor adventurer? Well do not fear, as Jeju Island have plenty of museums and exhibitions to entertain you with.  Here are a few:

Teddy Bear Museum: This museum provides many famous art works recreated with teddy bears in which some are dated back more than 100 years ago…it’s so fluffy!

Love Land: WARNING 18+ This is a theme sculpture park where it showcases the appreciation of sexual values.  Rather than it being crude it is more humorous as you can see different facial expressions as well as exaggerated noises. You can probably see a lot of middle aged Korean women here having laughs with their friends.

Source: zimbio.com

O’Sulloc Green Tea Museum: A fan of green tea?  Then pullover here to learn about the 5,000 years old history of green tea and enjoy walking around the fresh green tea field.

Chocolate Museum: What is interesting about this place is that the museum is built using volcanic rocks.  The inside is filled with the aroma of chocolate and you taste the highest quality chocolate made without any preservatives and coloring.

Mini Mini Land: This outdoor park displays miniature versions of iconic landmarks around the world.  Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a giant?  Here’s your big chance!

Source: tripadvisor.com

Trick Art Museum: The trick art museum exhibits world famous artworks with a humorous 3D twist enabling visitors to interact with the paintings and take fun photos.

Source: tripadvisor.com

Food

Although Korean food is popular throughout the country, Jeju Island has food which is unique and only available there:

Jeju Madarins : the biggest export of Jeju Island, Jeju Mandarins are delicious, fragrant, and provides many health benefits.  It is sooo good it is even used in traditional Asian medicine.

Source: koreatimes.co.kr

Hallabong:  Genetic modifications of Jeju Mandarins.  Differences are that it is much larger and it is seedless.  It is called ‘Hallabong’ because it is primarily grown on Hallasan and the tip of the fruit is shaped like a mountain.  These are seen as luxury fruits in Korea and make perfect gifts for families.

Source: wikimedia

Jeju Chocolate:  Jeju chocolate isn’t only uniquely delicious but it makes favorite souvenirs for friends and families.  One of the iconic flavours is the purple cactus flavoured chocolate which can only be tasted in Jeju Island.  Other flavors can include green tea, Jeju Mandarins, Hallabong, and green tea.

Black Samgyupsal:  Black Samgyupsal is very different in terms of taste and quality. The infamous black pig, which can only be found and eaten in Jeju-do is currently one of the main and most valuable delicacies of the island. The pig is small and has black fur, and due to its unique farming practices it is much tastier.  Before grilling the black samgyupsal, it is smoked over burning hay allowing the smoke to penetrate the meat juices resulting in a unique taste and flavour unlike regular pork. When eating it is noticeably chewier and tender.

Source Seoul State of Mind

Well these are just some of our favorite places to visit on Jeju Island.  Have you been there?  Where are your favorite places to go?  Let us know in the comments section below!

Words by Ken Lee (Travel/Lifestyle blogger for Seoul State of Mind).  Follow him on Facebook to get more updates!